Summer in Sheffield brings the city to life with music, culture, food and community spirit. If you’re planning a visit, there’s no better base than the Leopold Hotel Sheffield. Located in the heart of Leopold Square, you’re within walking distance of the city’s best events and festivals. From iconic music weekends to family-friendly fun, here’s what you can experience during summer in Sheffield.
Leopold Square: Your Summer Stage
Step outside the hotel and you’re in Leopold Square, a vibrant hub that comes alive during the summer months. From May to September, the square hosts free live music performances every weekend, covering jazz, soul, swing, Latin, funk and more. Sip a cocktail on the hotel terrace or enjoy a bite while local acts perform just metres from you.
Upcoming summer sets include:
- Tessa Smith and the AppleJacks – classic swing and vintage vibes
- JJ’s Cocktail Club – upbeat party anthems with a live twist
- Orchestrated jazz nights – rotating Sheffield-based musicians
It’s the kind of atmosphere that turns a short city break into a proper summer escape. No tickets. No planning. Just good music and good company.
Tramlines Festival – 25 to 27 July
One of the biggest weekends in the UK festival calendar lands right here in Sheffield. Tramlines Festival, held at Hillsborough Park, is only 15 minutes by tram from the Leopold Hotel. Over 40,000 people attend each year, drawn by a massive line-up, buzzing food stalls and the unbeatable local energy.
This summer’s headliners include a mix of chart-toppers, indie legends and fresh talent. With multiple stages, comedy sets, family areas and afterparties around the city, it’s a full weekend of entertainment.
If you’d rather not commit to the full weekend ticket, there are plenty of fringe events across Sheffield city centre during Tramlines weekend too, ideal if you want to dip in and out while enjoying the comfort of your hotel.
Rock N Roll Circus – 29 August
If you’re in Sheffield at the end of August, head to Don Valley Bowl for Rock N Roll Circus—a wild blend of live music and circus spectacle. Think tightrope walkers, aerial acts, fire breathers and massive indie bands sharing the same space.
This year’s line-up includes The Wombats, Circa Waves, and more. With a backdrop of big tops and carnival lights, it’s a one-of-a-kind evening out. You can get there from the hotel in around 10 minutes by taxi or tram.
90s Fest Weekender – 12 to 13 July
Don Valley Bowl also hosts another crowd-puller in July: the 90s Fest Weekender. If you’re nostalgic for 90s pop, dance, R&B or hip-hop, this is your weekend. Over 100 acts take to the stage in a throwback celebration complete with themed decor, retro games and tribute sets.
A great shout for groups or couples looking for a fun and light-hearted summer gig.
Day Trips & Nearby Events
- Chesterfield Pride (19 July): About 25 minutes by train, this inclusive event features a huge pride parade, live acts, drag performances and community stalls.
- Peace in the Park (date TBC): Held in the Ponderosa park near the university, this free festival blends art, activism and family fun with live music and workshops.
- Art in the Gardens (September): One of the largest outdoor art exhibitions in the North, hosted in the beautiful Botanical Gardens.
Why Stay at Leopold Hotel Sheffield
Booking your summer in Sheffield break at the Leopold Hotel gives you comfort, convenience and character. The hotel is set in a beautiful historic building that was once a boys’ grammar school and is now home to 89 stylish bedrooms and suites.
Guests enjoy:
- A prime location in Leopold Square with dining, music and events on your doorstep
- Spacious, air-conditioned rooms
- Free Wi-Fi and on-site bar
- Easy access to trams, buses and taxis for festival travel
After a full day of exploring and dancing, come back to a calm, elegant space in the centre of it all.
Make the Most of Summer in Sheffield
Whether you’re coming for a weekend of gigs or a foodie getaway, summer in Sheffield has something to offer every type of traveller. And by staying at Leopold Hotel Sheffield, you’ll be at the heart of the action while still having space to relax and recharge.
Check out Leopold Hotel Sheffield’s website to book your stay and start planning your perfect summer city break.
